In this scenario, two dads and their kids are at a restaurant. The dads leave for a bit, after which two bullies begin throwing taunts at the kids. It's interesting to watch people cringe, but it was more interesting to watch people directly challenge the bullies. One woman in particular approached the boys and essentially told them that it wasn't right to mock the kids for having parents that love them. But my favorite was the big guy who got fed up with the teens and screamed "Get out!" at them. The bullies jumped out of their seats and quickly left the area.

I've asked my boys at times if they get teased about having two dads and fortunately that hasn't been an issue (usually any teasing is related to disabilities, which isn't cool). But I would hope that there would be people to stand up for my boys if other teens began mocking and taunting them about me and Mark. Frankly, I would hope that protectors would step up if others began mocking D's glasses or Les' unique quirks.

Bullying is never cool. Even if punches are never launched, the verbal sting of bullying can last a lifetime. Those who are bullies need to learn how to step up for themselves, but they also need others to step up for them when their own efforts aren't successful.

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About Me

My name is Jon. I live in Iowa with my husband Mark and our two sons. We have two dogs. We are adoptive parents of our one son and legal guardians of our other son. I am a huge proponent of foster care and adoption. I am a member of a small, but active UCC church. I have worked in the disability field since high school. Oh, and I like comic books. A lot.
Feel free to comment on posts, even if you disagree with some or all of the content. I do moderate comments, but that's mainly to weed out spam. I might comment back at you, but I'd love to hear your thoughts. The opinions expressed on this blog are my own and not anyone else's.